Chamber and committees

I am sure that we could continue for much longer, but I will have to bring the session to a close. I thank the witnesses. It has been an invaluable session.

We will have a short suspension to allow our witnesses to leave, and we will have a quick comfort break.

There will probably be some more questions on that issue.

I will bring in Russell Findlay. There is a lot to cover, so I ask for succinct questions and answers. That would be appreciated.

On that plea from our colleagues, I thank you all for your attendance. It has been a very interesting session. We will have a very short suspension to allow our witnesses to leave.

We will move straight on to Jamie Greene. A number of other members want to come in.

Fulton MacGregor wanted to come in with a question.

Stuart, do you want to come in?

Thanks very much. I am sure that there will be more questions on that topic.

Our second panel consists of former sheriff David Mackie of Howard League Scotland; Professor Nancy Loucks, chief executive officer at Families Outside; and Ms Wendy Sinclair-Gieben, His Majesty’s chief inspector of prisons. I welcome you all. As with our first panel, I will move straight to questions, and I intend to allow about 60 to 80 minutes for this panel.

I will start with a general opening question on part 2, which relates to release from custody. I will come to Wendy Sinclair-Gieben first, then Professor Loucks and then David Mackie. With the aim of supporting the successful reintegration of prisoners into the community, the bill includes provisions on release planning and standards of throughcare support. Are the proposals helpful, and would you like to see any changes in the provisions?

Wendy, over to you.

I will bring in Pauline McNeill, followed by Rona Mackay.